Gana Gueye: Senegal’s AFCON Glory Earned on the Pitch, Not in the Office
22 March 2026
Final in Rabat Stirs Debate Over Africa's Crown
Idrissa Gana Gueye, Everton and Senegal’s midfield talisman, reaffirmed his country’s claim that the Africa Cup of Nations title was earned on the field, insisting that matches are decided in play, not in papers.
Final Details and CAF's Administrative Ruling
Senegal beat Morocco 1-0 in Rabat on January 18, after a late penalty controversy and a decisive extra-time strike by Babji that sealed the victory.
Two months later, CAF's Appeals Committee stripped Senegal of the title and awarded it to Morocco administratively (3-0), citing Articles 82 and 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations statutes.
Gueye's Reaction After Everton's Win
Gueye spoke on Canal Plus following Everton's 3-0 win over Chelsea, saying: “This is ridiculous; football is won on the pitch, and that is exactly what we did in Morocco.”
Teammate Elimane Ndai also celebrated, with two fingers raised in reference to Senegal's two titles in Africa.
The defender's stance reflects broader tensions around the fairness of the decision and the tournament's image, which he called largely successful overall.
Ultimately, Gueye reiterated that Senegal’s titles are earned in the stadium, not drafted in committee rooms.
Punchline 1: If controversy were a trophy, CAF would be hosting a victory parade right now.
Punchline 2: And if the pitch could talk, it would likely have said, “Nice game, but can we print the trophy?”
